Ardas Sahib Lyrics In Punjabi

Ardas Sahib Lyrics in Punjabi: A Deep Dive into the Sikh Prayer

Ardas, meaning "humble prayer" or "supplication," is a cornerstone of Sikh practice. It's a powerful and moving prayer recited daily in gurdwaras (Sikh temples) and by Sikhs worldwide. Understanding the Ardas Sahib lyrics in Punjabi goes beyond mere recitation; it’s about connecting with the divine and absorbing the rich spiritual message within. This article will provide a comprehensive look at the Ardas Sahib lyrics in Punjabi, along with transliteration and an explanation of its key themes and significance. We'll explore its historical context and delve into the meaning behind its profound verses.

Understanding the Structure of Ardas Sahib

The Ardas Sahib isn't a single, monolithic prayer. It's a structured composition with distinct sections, each serving a specific purpose. While variations exist in length and phrasing depending on the specific gurdwara or tradition, the core components remain consistent. A typical Ardas structure includes:

• Opening Invocations: This section begins with invocations to God and the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture. It sets the tone of humility and reverence.

• Remembering the Gurus: The prayer then remembers the ten Sikh Gurus, acknowledging their sacrifices and teachings. It emphasizes their unwavering devotion to God and their guidance for humanity.

• Remembering Sikh Martyrs (Shaheeds): This section pays tribute to the Sikh martyrs who gave their lives defending their faith and principles. It underscores the importance of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to truth.

• Prayers for the Khalsa Panth: Ardas includes prayers for the well-being and prosperity of the Khalsa Panth, the collective body of initiated Sikhs. It seeks divine blessings for the entire Sikh community.

• Prayers for Humanity: Ardas extends its scope beyond the Sikh community. It encompasses prayers for peace, prosperity, and well-being for all humankind, irrespective of faith or background.

• Seeking Divine Grace: The prayer concludes with a heartfelt plea for divine grace, seeking enlightenment, spiritual strength, and the ability to live a righteous life.

Ardas Sahib Lyrics in Punjabi (Selected Sections with Transliteration and Explanation)

Due to the length of the full Ardas, providing the entire text here is impractical. Instead, we will focus on key sections, offering Punjabi lyrics, transliteration, and an explanation of their significance.

1. Opening Invocations:

• Punjabi: ਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂ ਜੀ ਕਾ ਖਾਲਸਾ ॥ ਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂ ਜੀ ਕੀ ਫ਼ਤਹਿ ॥
• Transliteration: Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa || Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh ||
• Meaning: This is the iconic opening phrase. Waheguru means "Wonderful Lord," Khalsa refers to the pure community of initiated Sikhs, and Fateh signifies victory. The entire phrase proclaims the Khalsa as belonging to God, and asserts the ultimate victory of truth and righteousness.

2. Remembering the Gurus:

• Punjabi: ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਮਹਾਰਾਜ ਜੀ, ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਅੰਗਦ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਮਹਾਰਾਜ ਜੀ, ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਅਮਰਦਾਸ ਜੀ ਮਹਾਰਾਜ ਜੀ, ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਰਾਮਦਾਸ ਜੀ ਮਹਾਰਾਜ ਜੀ, ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਅਰਜੁਨ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਮਹਾਰਾਜ ਜੀ, ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਹਰਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਮਹਾਰਾਜ ਜੀ, ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਹਰਿ ਰਾਏ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਮਹਾਰਾਜ ਜੀ, ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਹਰਿ ਕ੍ਰਿਸ਼ਨ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਮਹਾਰਾਜ ਜੀ, ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਤੇਗ ਬਹਾਦੁਰ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਮਹਾਰਾਜ ਜੀ, ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਮਹਾਰਾਜ ਜੀ ਤੇ ਸਭਿ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਾਹਿਬਾਨਾਂ ਜੀ ਦੀ ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾ ਰਾਖੀ ਜੀ
• Transliteration: Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj Ji, Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji Maharaj Ji, Sri Guru Amar Das Ji Maharaj Ji, Sri Guru Ram Das Ji Maharaj Ji, Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji Maharaj Ji, Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Maharaj Ji, Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji Maharaj Ji, Sri Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji Maharaj Ji, Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji Maharaj Ji, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj Ji te sabh Guru Sahibaan Ji di kripa rakhi Ji
• Meaning: This section names each of the ten Sikh Gurus, invoking their blessings and acknowledging their immense contributions to Sikhism. The phrase Maharaj Ji is a respectful honorific.

3. Prayers for the Khalsa Panth:

• Punjabi: ਖਾਲਸਾ ਪੰਥ ਦੀ ਉੱਨਤੀ ਹੋਵੇ ॥
• Transliteration: Khalsa Panth di unnati howe ||
• Meaning: This simple yet powerful phrase expresses a prayer for the progress and prosperity of the Khalsa Panth. It signifies a desire for the Sikh community to flourish spiritually and materially.

4. Prayers for Humanity:

• Punjabi: ਸਾਰੇ ਸੰਸਾਰ ਵਿੱਚ ਸ਼ਾਂਤੀ ਹੋਵੇ ॥
• Transliteration: Saare sansaar vich shanti howe ||
• Meaning: This verse expresses a prayer for peace and harmony throughout the world. It reflects the Sikh principle of universal brotherhood and compassion for all beings.

The Significance of Ardas Sahib

The significance of Ardas Sahib extends far beyond the literal words. It embodies several crucial aspects of Sikh faith and practice:

• Humility and Gratitude: Ardas fosters a sense of humility before God, acknowledging one's dependence on the divine. It promotes gratitude for blessings received and encourages a spirit of selfless service.

• Unity and Brotherhood: The prayer emphasizes the importance of unity and brotherhood within the Sikh community and beyond. It promotes a sense of collective identity and shared responsibility.

• Remembering the Past: Ardas reminds Sikhs of the sacrifices made by their Gurus and martyrs, inspiring future generations to uphold the values of courage, truth, and justice.

• Seeking Divine Guidance: The prayer is a plea for divine guidance and strength to navigate life's challenges and live a righteous life.

• Universal Love and Compassion: Ardas extends its prayers beyond the Sikh community, expressing a desire for peace, prosperity, and well-being for all humanity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I recite Ardas Sahib in English?

While the original beauty and power reside in the Punjabi, many resources offer Ardas Sahib translations and transliterations in English. Reciting it in a language you understand helps grasp its profound meaning. However, respecting the original language is also important for preserving the cultural and spiritual context.

Q2: What is the appropriate posture for reciting Ardas Sahib?

Traditionally, Ardas is recited while standing with hands folded in prayer, signifying respect and humility.

Q3: How often should I recite Ardas Sahib?

There's no set frequency. Many Sikhs recite it daily, while others may do so on special occasions or during times of need. The key is sincere devotion and understanding.

Q4: Is there a specific time to recite Ardas Sahib?

While there isn't a prescribed time, many recite it during Nitnem, the daily morning and evening prayers, or at the end of kirtan (devotional singing) in a gurdwara.

Q5: Can I learn Ardas Sahib by myself?

Absolutely! Numerous resources – books, websites, and audio recordings – are available to assist in learning the text and understanding its meaning. You can start by learning sections gradually.

Conclusion

The Ardas Sahib lyrics in Punjabi represent a profound expression of Sikh faith, devotion, and aspiration. This prayer is not merely a recitation but a deeply spiritual experience connecting the individual with the divine and fostering a sense of unity, humility, and service. By understanding the lyrics, their transliteration, and their underlying meaning, Sikhs and those interested in Sikhism can deepen their connection with this powerful prayer and its message of faith, hope, and universal love. The journey of understanding Ardas Sahib is a continuous one, requiring consistent effort and sincere devotion. It is a journey of spiritual growth, culminating in a deeper understanding of oneself and one's place in the world.